Obtaining Brunei Pr: A Comprehensive Guide For Expats

Obtaining permanent residency in Brunei is a complex process. While the country offers a range of work permits and visas, the requirements for permanent residency are stringent and often subject to change. For those seeking to settle in this Southeast Asian nation, understanding the latest eligibility criteria and application process is essential. This includes considerations such as marriage to a Bruneian citizen, investment options, and the ability to prove one's qualifications and skills.

Marry a Bruneian

Marrying a Bruneian citizen is a lengthy process that requires a lot of paperwork. The first step is to obtain permission from the Bruneian government by submitting a letter of application from the spouse-to-be, an authorisation letter from their parents or guardian, identification documents, and proof of single status. It is also necessary to provide a copy of the spouse-to-be's identification card and/or passport, as well as a passport-sized photo. If either spouse has been previously married, additional documentation such as marriage, divorce, and death certificates are required. The process can take a month or more, and it is recommended to plan ahead.

Once the necessary documents have been submitted, an interview with an immigration official will be scheduled. After the interview, there is typically a one-month waiting period before the couple can receive the official letter of authorisation to marry. This letter is crucial for any future immigration-related applications and should be kept safe.

The next step is the court signing, which involves submitting additional documentation to the court, including proof of no impediment to marry or a statutory declaration by the applicant's parents. The marriage ceremony can then take place in Brunei, or another country, as long as both parties have the necessary visas. The marriage must take place within six months of the issuance of the Brunei Marriage document, or the process will need to be repeated with new supporting documents.

After the marriage, if the Bruneian spouse wishes to reside in another country, they must apply for permanent residency in that country. This typically involves demonstrating eligibility, providing proof of the relationship, and meeting other requirements such as vaccination certificates. The process of applying for permanent residency can be tedious and time-consuming, requiring multiple visits to immigration departments and repetitive paperwork submissions.

Have a Bruneian child

If you are a foreigner and have a child with a Bruneian national, your child may be eligible for Bruneian citizenship. However, it is important to note that the process and requirements for obtaining citizenship may vary depending on the specific circumstances, and there are some reports of lengthy delays in processing times.

If your child is born out of wedlock to a Bruneian mother and a foreign or stateless father, they may be eligible for Bruneian citizenship regardless of the country of birth. In this case, it is recommended to register the child under the mother's nationality and apply for Bruneian citizenship. This process can take several years, and it is advised to frequently follow up with the National Registration Office.

If the parents are married, the child's citizenship will typically follow the father's nationality. If the father is a foreigner, the child may not be able to obtain Bruneian citizenship, and it is recommended to register the child under the father's nationality to avoid statelessness. In some cases, the foreign spouse of a Bruneian national may be required to sign a letter stating that their children will not seek Bruneian citizenship or permanent residency.

It is important to note that dual citizenship is not recognized in Brunei, except for children born abroad to Bruneian parents who obtain the citizenship of the country of birth. These children may retain dual citizenship until the age of 18, at which point they must choose one citizenship to retain.

Work in oil, construction, or IT

Working in Oil, Construction, or IT in Brunei

Brunei's economy is largely dependent on its oil and gas industries, which have fuelled the country's growth and development for the past 90 years. The energy sector is the main contributor to the country's growth, with a 64.7% share of the country's GDP in 2022. With a vision to establish a progressive and resilient industry, the Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam was established in 2019 as the regulatory body for the oil and gas industry in the country.

The Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam offers various career opportunities for talented individuals with a passion for building a progressive and resilient oil and gas industry. The Authority emphasises continuous development and capability-building, offering a wealth of courses, training programmes, secondments, exchange programmes, and mentorship opportunities.

If you are seeking to work in the oil, construction, or IT industries in Brunei for less than a year, you will need to apply for a non-renewable Special Authorisation Work Pass (SAWP). This process can be quick, but it is important to ensure you have all the necessary documents, including a valid passport and identity card, application letter, and copy of your labour license.

For long-term work, you will need a foreign worker license, known as Lesen Pekerja Asing (LPA), and an employment pass. The LPA requires confirmation from JobCentre Brunei (JCB) and endorsement from Tabung Amanah Pekerja (TAP). The employment pass application process takes about five days, and the pass is valid for two years with the option to renew. If you plan to work for more than three months, you will also need to register with the national identity card system and obtain a Green Identity Card.

Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) is the country's largest oil producer, contributing around 90% to Brunei's oil and gas revenues. It gives preference to indigenous companies in its contracting activities, and most of its suppliers are registered representatives or distributors of foreign products and services. To enter the Brunei market, foreign companies often form joint ventures, agency agreements, or distributor relationships with local companies.

The energy sector in Brunei is expected to require about 50,000 workers by 2035, including professionals and skilled and semi-skilled workers. The country is investing in its workforce by developing a competency framework to identify training needs and ensure a sustainable, highly educated, and technically skilled local workforce to meet the industry's demands.

Run a business and hire locals

Running a Business and Hiring Locals in Brunei

Starting a business in Brunei can be challenging due to the numerous legal requirements and regulations. However, it offers several advantages, such as a low cost of living, a supportive government, a high quality of life, and a safe environment. Here are some key points to consider when starting a business and hiring locals in Brunei:

Legal Requirements:

• Register your business with the government.
• Set up a limited liability company (LLC).
• Ensure an initial capitalization of $50,000.
• Obtain a valid trademark and trademark registration certificate.
• Aim for an annual income of at least $10,000.
• Comply with all relevant authorities and register with at least one local authority.

Costs:

The cost of starting a business in Brunei depends on factors such as size, complexity, resource availability, and market conditions. Generally, it takes around $10,000 to start a small business, while larger businesses may require $25,000 to $50,000. The government provides assistance programs, including grants and loans, to support entrepreneurs.

Benefits:

• Brunei has a low cost of living, making it an attractive location for businesses.
• The government is supportive of businesses and has made the process easier.
• The high quality of life in Brunei makes it easier to recruit talented employees.
• Brunei is an extremely safe place to operate a business, with effective security measures.

Challenges:

Starting a business in Brunei comes with challenges. It's important to have a clear idea of your business goals and how to achieve them. Building a strong network of support is crucial, as receiving advice and support from the local business community can be difficult.

Hiring Locals:

Hiring locals in Brunei can be beneficial for your business and contribute to the local economy. However, there may be a preference for hiring foreigners due to the flexibility they offer and the lower cost. As an employer, you should be aware of the following:

• There is a push for a ''hire locals first' policy, especially for government contracts.
• Local employees are entitled to certain benefits, such as annual leave, maternity and paternity leave, and sick leave.
• Comply with labour laws, working hours, and termination policies.
• Understand the requirements for foreign worker licenses (Lesen Pekerja Asing, LPA) and employment passes for foreign employees.
• Register with JobCentre Brunei (JCB) and obtain endorsements from relevant authorities.
• Be prepared to pay a security deposit for foreign employees.
• Ensure compliance with all necessary documentation, including valid passports, approval letters, and certificates of qualifications.
• Foreign employees may need to undergo a medical examination as outlined by the Ministry of Health.

By running a business and hiring locals in Brunei, you can contribute to the local economy, create job opportunities, and build a strong foundation for your business venture. Remember to stay compliant with the country's regulations and labour laws throughout the process.

Be a highly qualified specialist

If you are a highly qualified specialist—for example, a doctor or an engineer—you stand a good chance of obtaining permanent residency in Brunei. This is one of the best routes to residency in the country.

To be considered a highly qualified specialist, you will need to have a high level of expertise and experience in your field. You will need to be able to demonstrate your qualifications and provide references. It is also beneficial to have a strong network and connections within your industry, as this can help with the application process and increase your chances of success.

As a highly qualified specialist, you may be able to obtain an employment pass, which is typically required for longer-term jobs such as technical work, project planning, and marketing. If you plan on holding an employment pass for three months or more, you will also need to apply for a Green Identity Card. This is a crucial step in the process of obtaining permanent residency.

The application process for an employment pass can be extensive, and there are various requirements that must be met. These include having a valid passport and identity card, an application letter from your employer, and a copy of your labor license. You will also need to undergo a medical examination as outlined by the Ministry of Health and provide the appropriate documentation. The entire process, including the LPA, employment pass, and identity card, can take a significant amount of time and effort, so it is important to be well-prepared and organized.

It is worth noting that even as a highly qualified specialist, obtaining permanent residency in Brunei can still be difficult. The process can be lengthy, and there are no guarantees. However, if you are able to demonstrate your value and contribution to the country through your specialized skills and knowledge, you will have a stronger case for residency.

Frequently asked questions